For The Love of Cookbooks
Real talk 101. I'm a self-admitted cookbook junkie. I scan the lists on Amazon, I buy them at used bookstores, I look for them at rummage sales. I also tend to read them before bed like novels. There is just something I love about cookbooks! Birthdays, Christmas, Easter, Mother's Day, you name it...I ask for cookbooks.
Most cookbooks these days are absolutely beautiful and while some are aspirational, I've also gotten many meal out of several recent finds. A lot of my recent favorites come from blogs that I started reading first. I love that there are so many options these days thanks to the proliferation of people writing about food. Some would say it's boring to have SO MANY food writers, but I find it exciting to have numerous options for recipe inspiration and heck, LIFE inspiration!
If you are looking for a last minute gift for a loved one, or even something for yourself, see some of my favorites below:
Deliciously Ella - Ella Woodward
Hands down one of my favorite books about plant based and gluten free eating. Ella also has a wonderful blog by the same name and always features accessible and delicious recipes. If you are looking for something on the healthier side, but with an all out appeal, this is the ticket!
The Skinnytaste Cookbook - Gina Homolka
My go-to book for weeknight dinners. These recipes are sophisticated, yet easy to follow and all are written with health in mind.
Weelicious and Weelicious Lunches - Catherine McCord
Another wonderful blog, but I have to say I might like the cookbook better. Beautifully shot photos in sunny California but very simple family meals that everyone in my home always enjoys. Lots of inspiration here for family dinners and lunches!
The Oh She Glows Cookbook - Angela Liddon
Some of these recipes can be a little bit fussy, but I find the breadth of options to be very useful when trying to come up with a vegan meal. The granola recipe is my favorite and a must-make!
Julie Bauer's Paleo Cookbook - Julie Bauer
An all around great book for family, weeknight or meals for entertaining. All of the recipes in this book make my mouth water and every one I have made is a hit!
Dinner a Love Story - Jenny Rosenstrach
This may be my all time favorite cookbook, just for its sheer utility. In fact, my copy is falling apart. Well written, funny and full of awesome dinners and meals for the whole family. This is a great choice for anyone struggling to eat and serve family dinners...you are not alone!
Barefoot Contessa (ALL OF THEM) - Ina Garten
I recommend any and all of her cookbooks. No, not the healthiest recipes, but she tests everything rigorously and her recipes never ever disappoint. I find these to be perfect for entertaining and just reading through for inspiration!
The Smitten Kitchen Cookbook - Deb Perelman
I consider this one right up there with the Barefoot Contessa books. I actually have a theory that Deb Perelman is my generation's Ina Garten. She's not quite as prolific, so time will tell on that one! Deb also has a successful blog and tests her recipes VERY thoroughly. Creative, fun recipes that NEVER ever fail for entertaining or just eating at home.
Prune Cookbook - Gabrielle Hamilton
I have not cooked from this book, and but I find Gabrielle Hamilton's notes to be fascinating. The book is written in chef lingo and is a great choice for anyone who wants to be transported right into the heart of a working, successful kitchen.
Bouchon Bakery - Thomas Keller, Sebastien Rouxel
This book is so beautiful. The pictures, the food. I want to eat the pages and you will too.
Gramercy Tavern - Michael Anthony
To me, this book is a love letter to New York City. Anyone who loves Manhattan will love this book!
My Paris Kitchen - David Lebovitz
Another love letter, this time to Paris (my other favorite city). This is a great one for me when I want to recreate my time abroad in this magical city. Another great choice for those who want to escape!
With that, I'll wrap up even though I could list so many more! I already have several new choices on my Christmas list, so stay tuned for another update soon.
